App Showcase: Fishbrain

What it does

Fishbrain is a comprehensive social network and utility tool for anglers. The app helps users discover and explore fishing spots using detailed maps, view crowd-sourced data on successful catches, and get predictive forecasts for the best times to fish. Anglers can log their own catches, build a virtual gear library, and connect with a global community by sharing posts and joining groups.

Where it shines

Fishbrain's strength lies in its deep integration of community data with powerful utility features. The onboarding itself is a highlight, using an interactive 3D globe for location selection (00:50) that makes setup feel like an adventure. The app's core value is clear when exploring a fishing spot (02:38), where maps are layered with user catches, weather data, and even AI-powered "BiteTime" predictions (03:09) that forecast fishing activity for specific species. This transforms a simple map into an intelligent planning tool.

UX highlights

• Interactive Onboarding: The use of a 3D globe (00:50) for location selection is a standout moment of delight that makes a standard input feel engaging and unique.
• Data-Rich Maps: The map is the app's central hub, effectively layering geographic information with user-generated catch locations, weather, and predictive analytics.
• Actionable Forecasts: The "BiteTime" feature (03:09) provides an hour-by-hour graph of fish activity, offering specific, actionable advice that goes far beyond a simple weather forecast.
• Community Feedback Loop: The app effectively uses crowdsourced information to generate valuable features like the "Best baits" list (04:45), creating a powerful incentive for users to contribute their own data.
• Robust Social Features: Beyond just posting catches, users can join groups (12:42), follow other anglers, and comment on posts (05:43), fostering a strong sense of community.
• Clear Pro Value: The distinction between free and Pro features is clear, with premium tools like detailed depth charts (02:12) and spot predictions being visibly locked, effectively communicating the value of an upgrade.

Monetization & growth

Monetization is introduced early via a soft paywall after the initial onboarding quiz (01:38). The offer focuses on a yearly plan with a significant discount ("Save 49%") and a 3-day free trial, which reduces the barrier to entry. The app uses a feature carousel on the paywall to clearly communicate the benefits of the Pro subscription. This strategy leverages the user's initial investment in personalization to increase the likelihood of conversion.

Who it’s for

Fishbrain is designed for anglers of all levels, from beginners looking for accessible spots and bait recommendations to serious enthusiasts who want to analyze detailed data and track their performance. The social features appeal to those who want to connect with a community, while the advanced mapping and forecasting tools cater to data-driven fishers aiming to maximize their success on the water.

Notes & opportunities

The app is incredibly feature-rich, which could potentially be overwhelming for a brand new user. While the onboarding does a good job of personalization, a more guided tour of the main map interface could help users discover key features like BiteTime and map layers more quickly. The post-subscription welcome screen (02:11) is a nice touch, but it could be more interactive, perhaps pointing out the first Pro feature the user should try.